Shingles

By RoDias3

1 min read

October 17th of this year, I called my doctor for an appointment regarding my suspicion of having shingles.

Was this shingles?

I had them 12 years ago, so I knew immediately what I had.

I had noticed the rash the day before when I got out of the shower. The doctor immediately gave me an antiviral in her office and called in a prescription.

She also gave me gabapentin. The pain was so bad I could hardly sleep at night.

Persistent pain

It is now December 7, and I am still having pain.

Although not as significant as it was in the beginning, I still have it.

The first time I had it, it was from the middle of my chest to the middle of my back on the left side. It’s the same this time. Unfortunately, back then I had the pain for three months.

I am praying that it doesn’t last that long this time. My doctor said that I could get shingles again.

Considering the future with shingles

I’m up in the air about what to do.

I do know that effective January 1, 2023, my health insurance will pay for the shingles shot, on both of them. The doctor said if I do get them again, and have the shot, I shouldn’t get them as bad.

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Jo Johnson Moderator & Contributor
<inline-mention username="RoDias3" user-id="4518792"/> I am so sorry you are having another bout of shingles. I’ve never had them and they do frighten me. I had the old shingles vaccine just before starting my first biologic and before the new vaccine came out. If you are on meds for RA, especially immunosuppressants, you will need to speak with your doc about the timing of the Shingles vaccine. Best wishes for a quick recovery and the ability to prevent another bout! Jo
Mary Sophia Hawks Moderator & Contributor
The new Shingles vaccine is not live virus, so it is advised. The vaccine decreases both the length and severity of Shingles should you get it again. You are also less likely to suffer post-herpetic neuropathy like you do now. <a href='https://CDC.gov/shingles' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer ugc'>CDC.gov/shingles</a> is the resource I used. Praying for recovery soon. Mary Sophia, moderator
Julie.Byers Community Admin
<inline-mention username="RoDias3" user-id="4518792"/> I wanted to check in and see how you’ve been feeling? Has the pain subsided at all? I hope you‘ve been able to enjoy this holiday season. Sending well wishes, Julie (team member) 
1. RoDias3 Member
 <inline-mention username="Julie.Byers" user-id="3185594"/> thank you for checking with me. I am still having pain on my left side. It goes from the center of my chest around to my under arms. I saw the doctor on the 23rd and she said it could be a while before the pain, subsides, or it may never go away. I am thankful that it’s not as bad as it was in the very beginning. I will be getting my first shingles shot after the first of the year as my insurance will pay for the shots.
2. Julie.Byers Community Admin
 <inline-mention username="RoDias3" user-id="4518792"/> I’m sorry to learn that you’re still experiencing pain, but I’m glad it’s not quite as bad as in the beginning. It takes a lot of strength and resilience to keep pushing through the constant pain. Our community is always here for you! I hope the new year brings even further reduction in your pain. Best of luck with the shingles shots. Thinking of you, Julie (team member)